snow removal, ice control, RMWB

The RMWB is reviewing the program in place for snow removal and ice control in order to make sure the program is effective and meeting the needs in the local area. According to councilor Keith McGrath “Certainly what we have been doing is not working. In the dead of winter when it’s dark, people are miserable anyways, but when it’s compounded with not being able to get in your driveway or get on your streets, it just increases the problems we have.” Right now snow and ice are scraped and removed in residential areas just a few times a year, and this is only done when the snowpack reaches 10cm. Some have suggested that more frequent snow removal and ice control are needed, but there are additional considerations with this move.

Robert Kirby, who is the Acting Director of Operations for RMWB, has been planning consultation meetings over the next few months in order to address concerns and determine what changes are needed for better snow removal and ice control. Kirby said “There is a growing number of residents who would like to see snow plowing in the residential areas. This review will clearly identify the satisfaction level of our residents.” Kirby continued by saying “For us to be able to get into the streets and clear them properly, we’re going to need the roadways cleared.” According to councilor Tyran Ault “It was a horrible winter. If it’s the same kind of winter, we’re going to get a lot of flack again.”